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The Public Authority for Manpower launched a new digital service on October 1 that allows members of the public to report violations of labor laws under its jurisdiction. Arab Times reported that officials named the platform Report Me and integrated it into the existing Sahel application for convenient access. The authority stated that the tool supports the global campaign to combat trafficking in persons while strengthening overall market oversight and legislative compliance.
One category of reportable offenses centers on the employment of women in roles where regulations explicitly forbid their engagement or within businesses that restrict services to male clients only. PAM described the service as a straightforward electronic method for citizens to flag such issues and contribute to enforcement efforts. The move reflects ongoing attempts to align workplace practices with established gender-specific labor rules.
A PAM administrative decision issued in 2018 and reported by Arab Times prohibits the employment of women in 15 categories of industrial work considered hazardous or unsuitable. These include the production of dyes, asbestos handling, chlorine manufacturing, asphalt work, quarrying, pesticide production and storage of organic fertilizers among others. The same decision requires employers to arrange secure transportation for female staff working permitted night shifts in sectors such as pharmacies, hospitals and oil industry facilities.
Central Statistical Bureau figures show that Kuwaiti women comprised approximately 58 percent of national government employment in recent years, highlighting their significant role in the public workforce. In contrast, the private sector sees lower participation rates that the new reporting tool may help protect through better regulation. The authority has previously issued guidance on permissible work environments to prevent exploitation.
The Report Me service forms part of PAM’s broader strategy to engage the community in labor market supervision. PAM said in the announcement that increased public input will aid its inspectors in identifying and addressing non-compliant practices more effectively. Officials urged residents to utilize the platform responsibly to maintain the rule of law.
A 2016 directive from the authority, according to earlier Arab Times coverage, canceled all work permits for women in men-designated facilities such as gyms, salons and coffee shops while imposing reciprocal restrictions on male staff in female-oriented businesses. These policies have remained in force and the digital service now provides a dedicated channel for reporting breaches. The Public Authority for Manpower continues to refine its digital offerings to match the demands of a labor force where expatriates constitute the majority of private sector employees.
